Diwali, the festival of lights: meaning, customs and date

Diwali, or Deepavali, is one of the most important festivals in India and is celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs around the world. It is called the “festival of lights” because lights are everywhere.

Victory of light

Diwali stands for the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Depending on tradition it recalls different stories, such as Rama’s return to Ayodhya or the worship of the goddess Lakshmi.

Diyas, rangoli and sweets

Homes are cleaned and lit with small oil lamps, the diyas. Colourful rangoli patterns of coloured powder appear in front of doors, and families share sweets and fireworks. The festival lasts five days.

The date

Diwali follows the Indian lunar calendar and falls between mid-October and mid-November. In Germany, too, Indian communities celebrate the festival, often with dance and music.

Diwali at L'Antica

Around Diwali, the design of our website puts on a festive look. At L'Antica Pizzeria Napoletana in Stuttgart you can enjoy Neapolitan pizza and fresh pasta. Want to drop by? Reserve a table or view the menu first.

More festivals & traditions: Holi, the festival of colours · Oktoberfest and the Cannstatter Volksfest · 4th of July · Halloween in Stuttgart